Quote Originally Posted by TinCow View Post
Those are both interesting suggestions. I've played in Italy more than any other spot, personally, but I've always done it as a Northern Italian power. Never experienced the game as Naples, which would be very different due to their not being in the HRE. Teutonic Order is also a very interesting idea. Another option that springs to mind that seems to be similar to those is Georgia. (I assume we're talking about the normal 1453 start date?)
I normally don't play in Europe, truth be told I love the Rus steppes and Sengoku-Japan too much to be bothered with European politics! But i'll go where is agreed upon, and Italy seems very interesting with the many different states to be fought and brought to heel.

I've always started in 1399, but 1453 would be fine - it still leaves plenty of time to play.